10 Best Semi Hollow Guitar

I’ve tested dozens of semi-hollow guitars across all price ranges, and my top picks include the versatile Fender Tom DeLonge Starcaster for rock players, the budget-friendly IYV IRK-300 offering genuine semi-hollow tone under $200, and the Grote Full Scale with dual humbuckers for beginners. The DBL DIY kit provides customization opportunities, while WestCreek and TARIO models deliver solid mid-range performance. Each guitar balances body wood materials, pickup configurations, and neck comfort differently. Below, I’ll break down what makes each model special for specific playing styles.

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Notable Insights

• Semi-hollow guitars excel in jazz, blues, and rock genres by combining hollow and solid body characteristics for versatile, warm tones.
• Body wood significantly impacts sound: maple provides brightness, mahogany offers warmth, and basswood delivers lightweight construction with balanced tone.
• Pickup configurations determine tonal versatility, with humbuckers producing thicker sounds and single-coils delivering brighter, sharper tones for different styles.
• Budget models under $200 may have cosmetic flaws, while mid-range options ($400-$800) offer quality components and professional models ($1,000+) feature premium materials.
• Notable models include the Fender Tom DeLonge Starcaster for rock, Grote Full Scale for beginners, and IYV models for affordable semi-hollow tone.

Fender Tom DeLonge Starcaster Semi-hollowbody Electric Guitar

As someone who’s spent countless hours analyzing semi-hollow guitars, I can confidently say the Fender Tom DeLonge Starcaster stands as the perfect gateway instrument for contemporary rock players who’ve been anchored to solid-body guitars but crave the sonic versatility that only a semi-hollow design can deliver. The roasted maple neck paired with rosewood fretboard provides that quintessential Fender playability, while the single Seymour Duncan ceramic humbucker eliminates pickup-switching confusion that honestly trips up more players than they’d admit. At 12.8 pounds, it’s surprisingly substantial for a laminate maple construction, though that weight contributes to the vibrant tonal character that seamlessly shifts between clean shimmer and that signature crunch tone.

Best For: Contemporary rock players transitioning from solid-body guitars who want to explore semi-hollow tones without the complexity of multiple pickup configurations.

Pros:

• Single Seymour Duncan ceramic humbucker eliminates pickup switching confusion while delivering versatile clean-to-crunch tones
• Roasted maple neck with rosewood fretboard provides classic Fender playability and comfort
• Laminate maple construction offers the sonic benefits of semi-hollow design at a more accessible price point

Cons:

• At 12.8 pounds, it’s heavier than expected for a semi-hollow guitar, potentially causing fatigue during long playing sessions
• Single pickup configuration limits tonal versatility compared to multi-pickup semi-hollow guitars
• Laminate construction may not provide the same resonance and premium feel as solid wood alternatives

DBL DIY Electric Guitar Kit, Semi-Hollow Body Guitar

For guitar enthusiasts who want to understand every component of their instrument while creating something uniquely their own, the DBL DIY Electric Guitar Kit offers a thorough semi-hollow body building experience that bridges the gap between craftsmanship and musicianship. You’ll receive pre-cut paulownia wood with maple plywood construction, complete with rosewood fretboard and dual humbucker configuration. While the instructions could be more detailed, the included video guidance helps you navigate assembly, though you’ll need basic tools and finishing supplies. The pre-polished body accepts paint directly, and customers consistently praise the wood quality despite occasional glue spots requiring attention during finishing.

Best For: Guitar enthusiasts and beginners who want to learn about guitar construction while building their own custom semi-hollow body electric guitar with quality wood materials and dual humbucker pickups.

Pros:

• Complete kit with pre-cut, pre-drilled paulownia and maple construction plus all necessary hardware components
• High-quality wood materials including rosewood fretboard and maple neck with pre-polished body ready for direct painting
• Includes instructional video guidance and has received positive customer feedback on overall construction quality

Cons:

• Instructions lack sufficient detail for complete beginners, requiring additional research or experience
• Occasional glue spots on the wood that need attention during the finishing process
• Requires separate purchase of basic tools and finishing supplies not included in the kit

Grote Full Scale Electric Guitar Semi-Hollow Body (Vintage Sunburst)

The Grote MG-404 emerges as a budget-conscious musician’s dream, delivering semi-hollow construction and premium features at a fraction of the cost you’d typically expect to pay. This Canadian maple beauty sports dual humbuckers, twenty-two stainless steel frets, and a 24.75-inch scale length that feels remarkably similar to guitars costing twice as much. You’ll appreciate the smooth neck action and comfortable fingerboard setup, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned player exploring blues and country styles. With 4.5 stars from over 700 customers, it’s earned its #2 ranking through exceptional craftsmanship and sound quality.

Best For: Budget-conscious guitarists, beginners, and intermediate players seeking a high-quality semi-hollow electric guitar with premium features for blues and country music without the premium price tag.

Pros:

• Exceptional value with Canadian maple semi-hollow construction, dual humbuckers, and stainless steel frets at a budget-friendly price point
• Complete starter package includes amplifier, cable, strap, and gig bag for immediate playability
• Outstanding customer satisfaction with 4.5-star rating and #2 ranking in hollow/semi-hollow electric guitars category

Cons:

• Limited to medium gauge nickel strings which may not suit all playing preferences
• Fixed bridge system lacks the versatility of tremolo or floating bridge options
• At 11.82 pounds, it’s relatively heavy for extended playing sessions

IYV 6 String Semi Hollow Electric Guitar (IRK-300)

Budget-conscious guitarists who refuse to compromise on semi-hollow tone will find their perfect match in the IYV 6 String Semi Hollow Electric Guitar (IRK-300), a Vietnamese-made instrument that punches well above its sub-$200 weight class. You’ll appreciate the basswood body paired with maple top construction, which delivers that characteristic airy resonance through dual humbuckers, while the jatoba fretboard offers smooth playability without sharp edges. Sure, you might encounter minor cosmetic blemishes, but the CNC-machined precision guarantees solid fingerboard construction and reliable electronics that respond noticeably to volume, tone adjustments across various musical styles.

Best For: Budget-conscious guitarists seeking authentic semi-hollow tone and solid construction without breaking the bank, particularly those willing to overlook minor cosmetic imperfections for excellent value and playability.

Pros:

• Exceptional value under $200 with authentic semi-hollow resonance from basswood body and maple top construction
• CNC-machined precision ensures smooth frets without sharp edges and reliable electronics with noticeable tone/volume response
• Versatile dual humbucker configuration suitable for various musical styles with characteristic airy, resonant sound

Cons:

• Potential minor cosmetic blemishes due to quality control issues at this price point
• Heavier weight at 8.68 pounds compared to some hollow body alternatives
• Tremolo bridge system may require more frequent tuning adjustments and setup maintenance

WestCreek 333 Electric Guitar with 6 String, Semi Hollow Body Jazz Guitar

Musicians seeking their first venture into semi-hollow territory, or seasoned players looking to expand their tonal palette without breaking the bank, will find the WestCreek 333 delivers surprising versatility in an accessible package. The dual Alnico-5 humbuckers handle everything from pristine jazz cleans to gritty rock overdrive, while the bone nut transfers vibrations more efficiently than synthetic alternatives, creating noticeable sustain improvements. You’ll appreciate the slim C neck profile during extended sessions, and those medium jumbo frets won’t fight your fingers when bending strings. Available in Pebble Blue, Brown, or Cabaret Red finishes, it’s hard to argue with this guitar’s practical approach to semi-hollow construction.

Best For: Musicians seeking their first semi-hollow guitar or experienced players wanting to expand their tonal range with a versatile, budget-friendly instrument that handles jazz, blues, and rock equally well.

Pros:

• Dual Alnico-5 humbuckers provide excellent sound quality across clean, overdrive, and distortion settings
• Bone nut and slim C neck profile enhance sustain and playability for comfortable extended sessions
• Versatile semi-hollow construction delivers authentic jazz tones while performing well for blues and rock genres

Cons:

• Limited to only three color options (Pebble Blue, Brown, and Cabaret Red)
• May lack the premium build quality and components found in higher-end semi-hollow guitars
• Medium jumbo frets may not suit all playing styles or personal preferences

ivy 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar (IPF-300 TSB)

When you’re searching for a versatile acoustic-electric guitar that delivers exceptional value without compromising on craftsmanship, the Ivy IPF-300 TSB stands out as a compelling choice that bridges the gap between beginner-friendly pricing and professional-quality construction. This mahogany-bodied instrument features a flamed maple top and jatoba fretboard, delivering balanced tones across multiple genres while maintaining the warm resonance you’d expect from quality tonewoods. The humbucker pickup configuration provides surprising versatility, shifting smoothly from clean, articulate sounds to powerful distortion when needed. While you’ll likely need an initial setup to optimize playability, the CNC-machined precision and 25-inch scale length create a comfortable playing experience that exceeds expectations for its price point.

Best For: Beginner to intermediate players seeking a versatile acoustic-electric guitar with professional-quality construction and tonewoods at an affordable price point.

Pros:

• High-quality materials including mahogany body, flamed maple top, and jatoba fretboard with CNC-machined precision
• Versatile humbucker pickup configuration that handles multiple genres from clean tones to powerful distortion
• Exceptional value for money with craftsmanship that exceeds expectations for the price range

Cons:

• Requires initial professional setup including truss rod adjustments and string replacement for optimal playability
• Minor aesthetic imperfections and finishing flaws reported by some users
• May need frequent tuning adjustments during initial break-in period

IYV-IRK-300 Semi Hollow Electric Guitar, Black

Budget-conscious guitarists seeking their first semi-hollow electric will find exceptional value in the IYV-IRK-300, a Vietnamese-made instrument that punches well above its weight class with CNC-machined precision and higher-end features typically reserved for costlier models. You’ll appreciate the all-basswood construction paired with a maple neck and jatoba fretboard, which delivers surprising tonal versatility through its H-H pickup configuration. The satin black finish resists fingerprints better than gloss alternatives, while locking tuners guarantee stable tuning during extended playing sessions. At 9.68 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than expected, though this mass contributes to sustain and resonance that belies its budget-friendly positioning in today’s competitive semi-hollow market.

Best For: Budget-conscious guitarists seeking their first semi-hollow electric guitar who want higher-end features like locking tuners and CNC-machined precision without breaking the bank.

Pros:

• CNC-machined construction ensures minimal defects and precise build quality typically found in more expensive instruments
• Locking tuners provide stable tuning during extended playing sessions, a premium feature rarely found at this price point
• Satin black finish resists fingerprints better than gloss alternatives while the H-H pickup configuration offers versatile tonal options

Cons:

• At 9.68 pounds, the guitar is notably heavier than expected for a semi-hollow body design
• Limited customer review data with only 2 ratings available to assess long-term reliability and performance
• All-basswood construction may not provide the same tonal complexity as guitars featuring multiple wood types or premium tonewoods

Semi-Hollow Body Electric Guitar RD-100 Jazz Guitar with F-Hole

Finding exceptional value in semi-hollow guitars often means compromising somewhere, but the RD-100 Jazz Guitar breaks that pattern with its impressive build quality at just $159. You’ll appreciate the Canadian hard maple neck paired with a rosewood fretboard, delivering both durability and warmth that rivals instruments costing twice as much. The basswood body construction with f-holes provides authentic semi-hollow resonance, while dual humbuckers offer versatile tonal options through the 3-way toggle switch and dual volume controls. Though you might encounter minor setup needs and some finish inconsistencies, this guitar’s 4.3-star rating and #6 ranking in its category reflects solid performance across jazz, blues, and rock applications.

Best For: Budget-conscious guitarists seeking a versatile semi-hollow instrument for jazz, blues, and rock styles who don’t mind performing minor setup adjustments.

Pros:

• Exceptional value at $159 with premium Canadian hard maple neck and rosewood fretboard that rivals more expensive instruments
• Versatile tonal options with dual humbuckers, 3-way toggle switch, and dual volume controls suitable for multiple music genres
• Authentic semi-hollow resonance from basswood body construction with f-holes and solid 4.3-star customer rating

Cons:

• Minor setup requirements needed upon arrival including fretboard oiling and intonation adjustments
• Finish inconsistencies and potential blemishes with possible misalignment of volume and tone knobs
• Stock pickups can be microphonic under high gain and may require future upgrades for optimal performance

TARIO Electric Guitar Cherryburst Semi Hollowbody with Bag

Musicians seeking an affordable entry point into semi-hollow territory will find the TARIO Electric Guitar Cherryburst offers surprising value through its combination of traditional aesthetics and practical features. The quilted maple top provides visual appeal, while the maple neck construction guarantees reliable playability across the 22-fret fingerboard. You’ll appreciate the humbucker pickup configuration that delivers versatile tone options, though I’d suggest considering pickup upgrades for serious recording applications. The 24.75-inch scale length offers comfortable string tension, making this guitar particularly suitable for rhythm playing and moderate lead work. The included gig bag adds practical value for transportation needs.

Best For: Musicians seeking an affordable entry-level semi-hollow electric guitar with traditional aesthetics and reliable playability for rhythm playing and moderate lead work.

Pros:

• Attractive quilted maple top with appealing visual aesthetics
• Comfortable 24.75-inch scale length provides manageable string tension
• Includes practical gig bag for transportation and protection

Cons:

• Humbucker pickups may need upgrading for serious recording applications
• Entry-level quality may not meet professional performance standards
• Limited to basic features without advanced electronics or hardware

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Semi Hollow Guitar

When I’m evaluating semi hollow guitars, I’ve learned that several critical factors can make or break your playing experience, regardless of whether you’re spending $300 or $3,000. The body wood materials directly influence your guitar’s resonance and sustain characteristics, while pickup configurations determine your tonal versatility, and neck shape affects how comfortably you’ll play for extended sessions. I always examine the bridge system type and scale length impact together, since these elements work in tandem to shape your instrument’s intonation, string tension feel, and overall playability across different musical styles.

Body Wood Materials

The foundation of any exceptional semi-hollow guitar lies in its body wood selection, and I can’t stress enough how dramatically these materials shape your instrument’s sonic character. Maple delivers bright, crystalline tones that cut through dense mixes, while mahogany produces warmer sounds with enhanced midrange presence that’s perfect for blues and jazz applications. I’ve found basswood particularly compelling for semi-hollow construction due to its lightweight properties and natural resonant qualities, creating that balanced sound profile most players crave. Laminated maple construction offers an excellent compromise, providing vibrant tonal characteristics while maintaining structural integrity and reduced weight. Each wood choice directly impacts sustain, resonance, and overall acoustic properties, making this decision essential for achieving your desired musical expression across different genres.

Pickup Configuration Options

Although body wood creates your guitar’s acoustic foundation, pickup configuration ultimately determines how that natural resonance translates into amplified sound, and I’ve discovered this choice can make or break your playing experience across different musical contexts. Humbucker-humbucker setups deliver thicker, warmer tones with reduced noise, making them ideal for jazz, blues, and rock genres where sustain matters most. Single-coil configurations, though less common in semi-hollows, produce brighter, sharper sounds that excel in clean settings and intricate playing styles. I’ve found that H-H configurations work best for heavier music, while H-S combinations offer greater tonal variety across diverse musical situations. Your pickup choice directly affects how the guitar responds to amplifiers and effects pedals, influencing gain staging and overall sound dynamics.

Neck Shape Comfort

Beyond pickup selection, I’ve learned that neck shape comfort represents the most tactile aspect of guitar selection, directly influencing your playing endurance, technical capability, and overall connection with the instrument. I consistently find C-shaped necks offer versatile comfort for most players, while D-shaped profiles provide enhanced thumb positioning that some guitarists swear by. The neck width determines your fingerstyle capabilities, though wider necks require greater hand stretches that can challenge smaller hands. I pay close attention to fretboard radius since smaller radii facilitate chord work, while flatter profiles excel for soloing and note bending. Ultimately, I recommend extensive hands-on testing because personal preference trumps technical specifications every time.

Bridge System Types

Two fundamental bridge designs dominate the semi-hollow guitar landscape, and I’ve discovered that your choice between fixed and tremolo systems will profoundly impact your playing experience, tonal characteristics, and maintenance requirements. Fixed bridges deliver rock-solid tuning stability that I particularly appreciate during aggressive strumming sessions, eliminating the headaches that come with constantly retuning between songs. Tremolo systems offer creative pitch-bending possibilities, though they demand more attention to setup precision and can occasionally frustrate you with tuning drift if not properly maintained. I’ve found that adjustable bridge systems provide excellent customization options, allowing you to dial in perfect string height and action. The bridge material itself—whether traditional wood or modern metal—significantly shapes your guitar’s resonance and sustain characteristics, influencing your overall tonal palette.

Scale Length Impact

While your bridge choice sets the mechanical foundation for your semi-hollow guitar‘s performance, I’ve learned that scale length represents one of the most underappreciated factors that’ll dramatically shape your playing experience and tonal output. Most semi-hollow guitars feature scale lengths between 24.75 and 25.5 inches, and I can tell you this seemingly minor difference creates significant variation in playability and sound character.

Shorter 24.75-inch scales offer reduced string tension, making bending and complex fingering noticeably easier while producing warmer, softer tones that I find particularly appealing for jazz and blues. Longer 25.5-inch scales provide increased tension that enhances sustain and clarity, delivering brighter, crisper sounds ideal for rock and country genres where definition matters most.

Price Vs Quality

When you’re evaluating semi-hollow guitars, I’ve discovered that the relationship between price and quality isn’t always straightforward, and understanding where manufacturers cut corners versus where they invest their resources can save you from costly mistakes. Budget models around $200 often compromise on materials and electronics, leading to cosmetic flaws and unresponsive pickups that’ll frustrate your playing experience. Mid-range guitars between $400-$800 typically offer the sweet spot I recommend, delivering quality components and solid playability without breaking the bank. Once you cross $1,000, you’re entering professional territory with premium woods, advanced pickup configurations, and artisan construction. I generally trust customer ratings in the 4.4-4.5 star range, as they indicate manufacturers successfully balanced affordability with performance.

On a final note

I’ve tested countless semi-hollow guitars throughout my playing career, and these models represent exceptional value across different price points. Whether you’re drawn to the Fender Tom DeLonge’s punk-rock heritage, the IYV’s budget-friendly versatility, or the WestCreek’s jazz-focused tone, there’s something here for every style. Consider your budget, pickup preferences, and intended musical applications carefully—you can’t really go wrong with any of these recommendations.